UNIONDALE, NY (September 22, 2011) – Before the puck drops on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011 the Islanders and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a blood drive at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Since Hurricane Irene began its path along the East Coast, that storm and many other storm-related events have forced the cancellation of approximately 145 American Red Cross blood drives to date, resulting in the shortfall of more than 4,700 units of blood. These storms have severely impacted the Red Cross’ ability to build the blood inventory back up to sufficient levels.

The Red Cross blood drive will take place in the Lower Box Office of the Coliseum prior to the game. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting redcrossblood.org. As a special thank you for people helping their neighbors, the first 200 donors who come in to donate blood will receive a voucher for a pair of tickets to a future weeknight Islanders game. Presenting blood donors who are also attending the September 24th game will enter into a raffle for the opportunity to “High Five” the team as they take to the ice. Prizes are non-transferrable and not redeemable for cash.

“The American Red Cross hopes Islanders fans come out and give the gift of life to help replenish the blood supply,” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications, American Red Cross Northeast Division. “Significant rainfall on the heels of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee has caused widespread flooding in the Northeast resulting in the loss of blood donations at a time when the nation’s blood supply is already low. When the tropical storms hit Long Island, the Red Cross was there on the ground offering help and hope to those affected.”

The American Red Cross has been a primary supplier of lifesaving blood products in the United States for more than 50 years. The American Red Cross Blood Services - Northeast Division must distribute approximately 3,000 units of blood each day just to meet the basic needs of area patients. To donate blood and platelets through the American Red Cross, individuals must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health. The states of Maine, Massachusetts and New York allow those who are 16 years of age to donate blood with parental consent. For additional information regarding donor eligibility, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Founded in 1972, and this season celebrating their 40-year anniversary, the New York Islanders Hockey Club stands proudly as Long Island’s sole major league professional sports franchise. Keep up with breaking Islanders news on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NEWYORKISLANDERS and on Twitter @NYIslanders. For further information on any individual/group ticket options or sponsorship opportunities, contact the team’s office at (516) 501-6700 or e-mail customerservice@newyorkislanders.com. For more team information, log on to newyorkislanders.com.